What maneuvers are evaluated in ranch reining and how are they scored?

Ranch reining patterns include the core maneuvers of reining — circles at two speeds, flying lead changes, stops, rollbacks, spins, and a backup — arranged in a pattern that is posted before the class and must be ridden exactly as written. The scoring system reflects the maneuver-based approach of reining generally, with each maneuver evaluated individually and plus or minus scores assigned based on how well or poorly it was executed relative to the class's standard of correctness. Circles in ranch reining are evaluated on shape, lead correctness, and the demonstration of a clear speed difference between the large fast and small slow circle. The speed difference does not need to be as dramatic as what NRHA competition rewards, but a visible, genuine difference between the two speeds must be present for the circle work to earn positive scores. A horse that lopes the same pace in both circle sizes has not demonstrated the trained pace control that the maneuver requires. The stop is scored on the horse's willingness to stop from a cue, the correctness of the stopping position — hindquarters engaged, back rounded, front feet walking out — and the overall quality of the deceleration. Length of slide is not the primary evaluation criterion that it is in NRHA competition, which means a horse that stops correctly without an extreme slide scores well in ranch reining. A horse that stops abruptly by digging in its front feet, raises its head dramatically, or shows resistance in the stop will score lower regardless of whether it produces any slide. Spins are evaluated on correctness of footfall — the inside hind as a pivot point — willingness, and reasonable speed rather than the maximum speed that NRHA competition rewards. A correct, willing spin executed at a moderate pace scores better than a fast but incorrect spin, which is the opposite emphasis from NRHA open competition where speed is a primary scoring driver.